If you’re a senior in America, you’ve probably noticed some changes in your overall health. The body undergoes a lot of changes as we age, and many of these are simply a natural part of life. Older adults are more prone to having aches and pains, stiff joints, or difficulty in keeping up with the grandkids. Just because these struggles are normal doesn’t mean you should just give in, or start to think of yourself as old. Rather, take a look at your lifestyle, and discover how you can get a whole new lease on life. A few simple changes can help you thrive, and continue to enjoy your life to the fullest.

Examine Your Diet

If you’ve been struggling with low energy, or are having difficulty maintaining a healthy weight, take a look at what you’ve been eating. The most recommended diets are the Mediterranean diet and the DASH diet, both of which advocate for eating lots of fresh fruits and vegetables. They’re both low sugar diets, and include healthy fats and lean meats, all while staying away from red meat.

Daily Exercise

One of the best ways to stay young and healthy is to get enough exercise. You don’t need to do strenuous activity to stay in shape, and even walking 30 minutes a day a few times a week will do wonders for your overall health and wellbeing. You could join a water aerobics class, find a walking club, or watch a short exercise routine a home. The important thing is that you stretch and strengthen your muscles, since this will improve your flexibility, help you stay mobile, and even improve your mood.

Modifications to Your Home

A few simple home modifications can go a long way to helping you thrive. One of the first places you should look at is the bathroom, since it’s the most common place to have an accident like a slip or fall. Placing a bar in the shower, or on the side of the tub can provide safety and security, and prevent a mishap. Put adhesive mats on the floor of the bathroom as well as in the shower, since this extra grip will keep you safe.

Another great modification is to invest in smart home technology, that will allow you to control you home from a remote control, or even from your smartphone. You’ll be able to turn on and off the lights, change settings on the heating or cooling system, and be able to manage your home from one easy to use controller.

You Medicare Plan

If you haven’t changed your Medicare Plan in a few years, you should reevaluate your coverage. As you age, you probably have a few more doctor’s visits, prescription medications, and routine health screenings than before. Changing your health care plan could give you better coverage, give you access to more benefits, provide in-home care, or even cover a local fitness class. You’ll have more peace of mind knowing that you’ll be prepared for any health emergency you might have.

Scheduling a Hearing Test

One major lifestyle change you need to make is treating your hearing loss. Living with untreated hearing loss will age you far more than your years, and impact your ability to communicate with loved ones, make new friends, or participate in community activities. You won’t be able to enjoy dinner with friends, and may choose to stay home rather than going to the movie theatre. Don’t let hearing loss hold you back, stop you from communicating, or pose a safety risk, but get a hearing test today.